The recent Fortune magazine article, “Gen Z dreams of a ‘Ralph Lauren Christmas’ in a dollar store American economy” has me thinking. Why is Ralph Lauren Christmas trend, specifically? According to the author, “it’s not just luxury shoppers and Manhattan brownstones getting swept up in visions of tartan, velvet, and brass candlesticks. Instead, millions of budget-minded Americans are piecing together their own versions of ‘90s holiday opulence, raiding their local dollar stores…”
Instead of disposable, trendy décor, it appears that this year we’re craving warmth, nostalgia, and timeless beauty. And, I am here for it! The Ralph Lauren Christmas look (actually all Ralph Lauren design) embodies an ideal: layered, cozy luxury that is somehow grand and personal at the same time. Think roaring fires, rich mahogany tables, perfectly worn leather chairs, tartan blankets, brass accents, and flickering candlelight. It’s about creating a sense of comfort and cocooning, whether your home is a country cottage, suburban townhouse, or city apartment.
Although a Ralph Lauren Christmas looks luxe, luckily, you don’t need to spend a fortune to achieve it. Here are seven easy, affordable (even free!) ways to get the elegant, nostalgic look, without breaking the bank.
Embrace Deep, Rich Colors
A Ralph Lauren Christmas begins with color. Forget minimalist Scandi beiges or neutral palettes. This look is all about richness, warmth, and depth. Traditional red and evergreen are always in style, but if they clash with your existing space, don’t be afraid to try jewel tones like burgundy, navy, or eggplant.
On a budget? Here are some clever, inexpensive ways to bring color into your existing décor. Worn or dated glass ornaments can be revived with a quick coat of paint. Many are “cold painted,” so the surface paint easily washes off (sometimes just with warm water). Ribbon can be had at your local Dollar Tree. And, don’t forget to check thrift stores, which often sell vintage rolls of ribbon by the bag, for pennies on the dollar.
Go Mad for Plaid
Nothing shouts Ralph Lauren quite like plaid. Traditional tartan instantly adds warmth and heritage charm to your home. (Visit The Tartan Shop to see an extensive list of all tartans by name.)
Use plaid tablecloths, ribbons, toss pillows, throws, and even bunting. Plaid also looks stunning paired with brass candlesticks, crystal glassware, or vintage silver. If you want to go bold, mix different patterns (just keep the color palette complementary to maintain some visual harmony).
On a budget? A plaid wool scarf makes an easy table runner or layered centerpiece base. Or, wrap a stack of books in plaid paper and tie with a ribbon to elevate a cherished vase, bowl, or holiday figurine.
Add an Equestrian Element (or Ten)
The world of Ralph Lauren is filled with equestrian influences. Think of an English major house in the countryside, rustic stables, and the quiet luxury of leather and brass, which are all easy to incorporate into your holiday décor.
Brass hunting horns, horse figurines, or framed equestrian prints bring this classic look to life. Hang a small horn in a wreath or garland, or on the tree, tied with velvet ribbon and sprigs of greenery for a festive touch.
On a budget? Search online for vintage hunting or equestrian scene images in the public domain. Print and frame them in small gilded frames to hang on your tree or tuck into bookshelves. Even one or two well-placed pieces instantly evoke a hunting lodge atmosphere.
Candlelight Provides a Soothing, Rich Glow
Candlelight is at the heart of any Ralph Lauren holiday setting. It softens everything… brass gleams more warmly, crystal sparkles more brilliantly, and even simple pine boughs look luxurious.
Cluster candlesticks in varying heights on mantels, sideboards, and dining tables. Choose consistent materials (all brass or all crystal for a traditional look). Or mix metals for a more eclectic look.
On a budget? Work with what you have! Repurpose crystal barware or stemmed goblets as tealight holders. Groupings of three (in varying heights) create that rich, layered glow without spending a cent. The effect is cozy, romantic, and oh-so-Ralph-Lauren.
Pile It On: Layer Like a Pro
A Ralph Lauren Christmas is the polar opposite of minimalism. It’s sumptuous, lived-in, and full of texture. Layer throw blankets, toss pillows, books, greenery, and decorative accents in every room (you can think of it as “luxe clutter”!).
On a budget? Nature is your best resource for creating an abundant look. Forage for armfuls of evergreen boughs, berries, and pinecones. Fill empty vases with gathered branches. Pile fragrant pinecones into bowls or baskets. Strategically tuck sprigs of holly onto bookcases.
Dining Room Maximalism
The dining room is the perfect stage for your Ralph Lauren Christmas style. Think layers, upon layers… upon layers: tablecloth, runner, fabric placemats, charger plates, dinner plates, and cloth napkins are a feast for the eyes, all before the first course is served!
Add crystal stemware, polished silver, fresh flowers, and brass candlesticks. This is absolutely the setting where more is more.
On a budget? Mix and match. Combine inherited pieces with your china. Not enough napkins in one pattern? Alternate colors for an intentional look. The trick is to stick with one color theme (navy and gold, for example) and repeat it throughout in various ways.
Spend Extra Time on Your Packages
In a Ralph Lauren Christmas, even the gifts are part of the décor. If your gifts will sit under the tree for weeks, make them part of a cohesive visual.
Choose wrapping papers that reflect your color palette and layer ribbons for texture. Combine satin with velvet, or wired ribbon with natural twine. Add small embellishments like merry jingle bells, pretty ornaments, or sprigs of greenery for a special touch.
On a budget? Creativity is essential. Cut last year’s holiday cards into decorative gift tags, or use inexpensive white kraft paper tied with red ribbon and pine sprigs for a rustic effect. Use small pieces of leftover paper ends to create package “sleeves.” Presentation matters more than price when wrapping. (Click here for more inspiration and tips on wrapping gorgeous gifts.)
Embracing Ralph Lauren style Christmas décor creates a warm home that feels loved and lived in. And you need not have a crackling fire in the hearth or a sleek pony in the backyard to make your own beautiful holiday. With just a bit of creativity, you can create beauty from what you already have and celebrate the season in style.
For even more inspiration, be sure to check out Ralph Lauren A Way of Living: Home, Design, Inspiration.
While you are here, please take some time to enter our current home style, fashion, and beauty giveaways. And, if you enjoyed this Low Cost, No Cost Ralph Lauren Christmas Ideas post, please visit our Fabulous Interiors tab for more trends, giveaways and home décor inspiration.
NEED A PRODUCT REVIEW OR GIVEAWAY EVENT? Have a fashion, beauty or style product line and want an honest evaluation, or if you would like to create a giveaway or promotion? Please contact us.
Named one of the Top 50 Beauty Blogs in the World by RebateZone, Susan Said… WHAT?! is your guide to a life filled with style. From must-have fashion and accessories, to gorgeous gardens, stunning interiors, plus the latest products and ideas for chic parties, you’ll find it here. Editor Susan Conforte McNeill is an author, entrepreneur, and co-founder of the literacy organization Success Won’t Wait!